For the Minds and Wills of Men
A gripping, historical art mystery set in 1950s Cold War Manhattan full of intrigue and conspiracy, For the Minds and Wills of Men is a story of art, love, and espionage, as well layered and complex as the abstract expressionist paintings that take center stage.
"Jeff Lanier brilliantly evokes the energy and excitement of the New York art world in this Cold War thriller with an artistic twist. Along the way, he gives us fascinating insights into Abstract Expressionism and the power of art to communicate values and ideas."
-Ross King, New York Times bestselling, award-winning author of The Judgment of Paris, Brunelleschi'sDome, and Michelangelo and The Pope's CeilingMANHATTAN, 1953. Fear of communist subversion and espionage are tearing America apart. Abstract expressionism is on the verge of exploding, making New York the cultural epicenter of the world. While recovering a stolen Jackson Pollock for a wealthy client, art insurer Will Oxley falls for the client's daughter, Liz Bower, who leads him deep into the rebellious and seductive world of the abstract expressionist painters, their Village bar haunts and East Hampton binges. But when Will learns the painting-and Liz-may be hiding communist secrets better left hidden, he finds himself torn between exposing the girl he loves or risking his life by trusting her instead. Realizing nothing is as it seems, Will is caught between communist espionage, secret government programs, and the grip of cold war fear, suspicion, and betrayal where trust is all he has left...
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"Jeff Lanier brilliantly evokes the energy and excitement of the New York art world in this Cold War thriller with an artistic twist. Along the way he gives us fascinating insights into Abstract Expressionism and the power of art to communicate values and ideas."
-Ross King, New York Times bestselling, award-winning author of The Judgment of Paris, Brunelleschi's Dome, and Michelangelo and The Pope's Ceiling"Lanier intelligently limns not only the American obsession with Communist infiltration in the wake of World War II, but also the emergence of abstract expressionism in the U.S. This is an exceedingly intelligent and unpredictable story, one that astutely combines a love of art with an exciting tale of intrigue. A mesmerizing spy thriller, thoughtful and dramatic."
-Kirkus Reviews"Truth can be stranger than fiction, it's true-- but great fiction can also be inspired by true events. In this must-be-read-to-be-believed book, Lanier brings the real story of art as a key player in mid-century American politics and international relations. Sweetened with romance, intrigue, and historical knowledge, this book is a fun romp for readers of all stripes."
-Jennifer Dasal, author, ArtCurious: Stories of the Unexpected, Slightly Odd, and Strangely Wonderful in Art HistoryFor the Minds and Wills of Men is a captivating tour through the art world of postwar New York City, blended with an enthralling whodunit that leaves you guessing until the end.
-Glasstire MagazineJeff Lanier's terrific For the Minds and Wills of Men sweeps readers into 1950s New York City where abstract art is thought to contain messages to help enemies destroy democracy in America. Lanier skillfully and effortlessly captures the era but his outstanding talents are his vivid descriptions of paintings and his keen understanding of the avant-garde art world. A fresh voice and exciting storyteller, Lanier's "who-stole-it" mystery is of the highest order.
-Ann Weisgarber, Award-Winning Author of The Glovemaker and The Promise"Jeff Lanier has written a true unicorn of a novel. Taken as historical fiction, For The Minds and Wills of Men works on a fantastically authentic level, as its setting-1950s New York City, amid the Cold War milieu of paranoia, post-war patriotism and the rise of abstract expressionism-is rendered utterly convincingly."
- Todd Stoddard Smith, Author of Whore StoriesWith its 50s-noir flavor, engaging down-to-earth characters, and enticing art world plot, For the Minds and Wills of Men is highly recommended for readers of mystery fiction, historical fiction, or political thrillers, and especially those readers interested in American modern art and abstract expressionism.
- Lone Star Literary LifeFinding a historical mystery novel that utilizes history as a central mechanism of its dramatic impetus is a rare delight indeed, and Jeff Lanier achieves this beautifully through his thrilling novel where art meets espionage. For the Minds and Wills of Men is a superb read that I would certainly recommend to fans of sophisticated mysteries with plenty of atmospheric and accurate historical detail that only enhances the storyline.
- Reader's Favorite
